_could_ be the same. Preposterous! By Jove!"

And Hawbury stroked away the preposterous idea through his long,
pendent whiskers.

[Illustration: "SHE CAUGHT MINNIE IN HER ARMS."]




CHAPTER IX.



NEW EMBARRASSMENTS.

Mrs. Willoughby had been spending a few days with a friend whom she
had found in Naples, and on her return was greatly shocked to hear of
Minnie's adventure on Vesuvius. Lady Dalrymple and Ethel had a story
to tell which needed no exaggerations and amplifications to agitate
her strongly. Minnie was not present during the recital; so, after
hearing it, Mrs. Willoughby went to her room.

Here she caught Minnie in her arms, and kissed her in a very effusive
manner.

"Oh, Minnie, my poor darling, what is all this about Vesuvius? Is it
true? It is terrible. And now I will never dare to leave you again.
How could I think that you would be in any danger with Lady Dalrymple
and Ethel? As to Ethel, I am astonished. She is always so grave and so